As the countdown for Ganesh Chaturthi begins, Mumbai preps itself with glittering mandals, rows of fairy lights and delicious sweet preparations (yes, it’s time for Modak). The birth of Lord Ganesha is one of the grand celebrations in Mumbai. The entire city comes alive with street processions being carried out in almost every part of Mumbai. It’s a giant street party with a spiritual significance. If you are planning to visit Mumbai during Ganesh Chaturthi, here’s a virtual guide to take you through the streets of the city with the best of visions on display.

Major Ganesh Mandals and Themes for 2017

1. Lalbaugcha Raja

Image Credits: lalbaugcharaja.com

This is one of the most famous Ganesh mandals in Mumbai, which draws an average of 1.5 million devotees a day. Since 1935, Kambli Arts has been making the Ganesha idol, and the legendary design is now patent protected. This year, the idol has been made to resemble Korma, the second avatar of Lord Vishnu.

When to visit

The mandal is open round the clock. However, an ideal time to visit is in the early morning until afternoon on a weekday.

2. Ganesh Galli Mumbaicha Raja

Image Credits: sankashti.com

This particular mandal is located a few lanes away from the Lalbaugcha Raja, and also pulls in a lot of crowd during Ganeshotsav. The mandal is well known for replicating lavish themes every year. This year, they have replicated South India’s magnificent golden temple – Shripuram Temple, Vellore.

When to visit

Avoid anytime between 3 P.M. To 2 A.M, since these are the peak hours for darshan.

3. Khetwadi Ganraj

Image Credits: facebook.com/KhetwadichaGanraj

The mandal was established in 1959, but came into limelight in 2000 when it made the tallest Ganesh idol – standing 40 feet tall. The theme for Khetwadi Ganraj has not yet been announced. We’ll keep you posted with the theme update.

When to visit

Visit the pandal during the day, as evenings are generally crowded.

4. GSB Seva Kings Circle

Image Credits: gsbsevamandal.org

The Ganesha idol at GSB Seva mandal is adorned with gold weighing more than 60 kilograms. The mandal is distinctive from the rest because the idol is made out of eco-friendly clay. Also, the traditional Indian music being played in the background is performed by artists, and not played on a record. The theme for the mandal is yet to be announced. You can visit their official website to get the latest update.

When to visit

The Ganesha idol will stay from 25th August to 29th August, so you must visit the pandal early.

5. Andhericha Raja

Image Credits: facebook.com/Andheri-cha-RAJA

The pandal is not known for a towering Ganesha idol, but reputed for fulfilling wishes. Every year, the mandal has a novel theme. This year it is the Ganesha idol being a replica of the one at Ashtavinayak trail in Pali village.

When to visit

This is the only idol in Mumbai that is immersed on Sankashthi Chaturthi (the last day of the festival when large idols are generally immersed) so you get some extra time to visit the pandal. Visit the mandal from morning until afternoon to avoid the crowd.

Other Pandals to Visit

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in every nook and corner of the city, and apart from the famous ones, there are many other well known pandals that are worth visiting. Ichhapurti Ganesh Mandal, Fort Vibhag Ganesh Utsav Mandal, Rangari Badak Chawl Mandal, Sarvajanik Utsav Mandal, Kamatchawl Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, Akhil, Anjeerwadi Mandal and Fort Vibhag Ganesh Utsav Mandal are some of the familiar ones.

Ganesh Immersion Dates

Ganesh Visarjan is majorly done on Anant Chaturdasi (11 days after the first day of the Ganesh festival). However, people who keep Ganesha at their homes choose to immerse on the following days, as per their preference.

August 26 – One and a half day Visarjan
August 27 – Three days Visarjan
August 29 – Five days Visarjan
August 31 – Seven days Visarjan and Gauri Visarjan
September 5 – Anant Chaturdashi
September 9 – Andhericha Raja Idol Immersion

Immersion Locations

The largest immersion of the famous Ganesha idols takes place at Girgaum Chowpatty. Juhu and Versova Beach in Mumbai suburbs are other popular places of immersion. If you are considering visiting the vantage points, South JSS Road and Kennedy Bridge Road in South Mumbai, Veer Kotwal Garden and Dr. Ambedkar Road in Central South Mumbai, Fishermen’s colony in Versova and Adi Shankaracharya Marg in Powai are the places that would offer you a good view of the visarjan ceremony.

Want to be a part of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations? Stay with a local family at a homestay in Mumbai and get a first-hand experience of the entire festivity.

Srishti is a writer by profession and a dreamer by choice. She loves experimenting with her space and her looks. Being an avid animal lover, she plans on being a part of Black Jaguar White Tiger Foundation in near future.